[EW-02]For attorneys
A technical expert, retained early.
Aircraft disputes turn on what the contract required, what the records show and what condition the aircraft was in. This page sets out how counsel can use the practice.
[EW-02.1]Working with counsel
What to expect.
- 01Call before the records are requestedAn early review helps frame document requests around the records that decide technical questions.
- 02Consulting or testifyingThe role is agreed at engagement and can change as the matter develops.
- 03Scope stays inside the fieldOpinions are limited to aircraft maintenance, records, condition and industry practice. Legal conclusions are left to counsel.
- 04Either sideThe practice is retained by plaintiffs and defendants, lessors and lessees, operators and repair stations.
- 05Inspection where it helpsIf the aircraft or component still exists, an inspection is usually worth more than any description of it.
- 06Fees in writingRates and terms are set out in the engagement letter before work starts.
[EW-02.2]First contact
What to send.
Nothing is read until conflicts are cleared.
- 01Parties and counselEvery party, insurer and law firm involved.
- 02The aircraftType, serial number and registration, and the engines if they are at issue.
- 03The questionA sentence or two on what is in dispute.
- 04The calendarExpert disclosure dates and any inspection deadline.
[EW]Next
Continue in the practice.
[00]Start here
Put the aircraft on the record.
A transaction to close, a redelivery in dispute, or a case that needs a technical opinion. One call reaches the people who do the work.